Fruchtschiefer

/ˈfruːxtʃiːfər/ noun

Definition

A type of metamorphic rock containing visible crystals of feldspar, mica, and other minerals, formed under specific geological conditions.

Etymology

From German: frucht (fruit) + schiefer (schist, a type of layered rock). German geological terminology named this stone for its resemblance to seeds or fruit embedded in the rock matrix, a name adopted into English geological science.

Kelly Says

Fruchtschiefer connects German poetry to geology—calling crystalline rocks 'fruit' shows how different cultures name the same natural phenomena based on what they see rather than what it actually is.

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